The History Place

The History Place helps guests from around the globe understand what makes Carteret County so special, sharing the story of the area's past as well as its most important features. One wall of the exhibit space highlights the varied economic areas in Carteret County. From commercial fishing and tourism to farming and boat building, the county's livelihoods are discussed in separate displays. The remainder of the space is used to re-create the era from circa 1880 to 1920. There is a parlor, medical office, authentic schoolroom and more, each creatively using the varied artifacts the museum has gathered through the years.

Some of the museum's historical artifacts are one of a kind, like the original carriage that Confederate spy Emeline Pigott was riding in the day she was arrested and a trunk with her personal belongings. A group of researchers has judged The History Place to have "the best collection of Civil War and East Coast genealogies from Massachusetts on down."

The museum's auditorium/banquet room is the site of a variety of public gatherings — from weddings and dinners to business gatherings and receptions to concerts and parties. In addition, there is a conference room for smaller groups of 25 people or less.

The History Place was truly a labor of love, not only for the society and its members, but also for all of Carteret County. The clock tower in the entry of the museum is filled with bricks purchased by individuals and groups for $100 each to help fund the project. And it illustrates exactly what the society has done — they've built a world-class museum "one brick at a time."

The Tea Clipper has more than 120 varieties of teas and offers a variety of gourmet foods. It is one of the most elegant dining places in Carteret County. The History Place and the Tea Clipper are open from 10 AM to 4 PM Tuesday through Saturday. Both are closed on Sunday and Monday.